Generations of pupils meet for big farewell

Generations of pupils were at Stowlawn Primary School for a last assembly.

It came before a move to a multi-million pound building. Staff with more than 160 years between them shared their memories.

Pupils sang specially-written songs and performed musical numbers at the Bilston school. Brenda Barker, head cook for 14 years, was awarded an MBE last year for her work on the Stowlawn estate and at the school. The 68-year-old, appointed in 1974, said: "I have nothing but happy memories of my time here. The children were my children and I loved cooking for them.

"It was proper cooking back then too, cooking that you would do at home. The pupils always loved my stew, Christmas dinners and famous green custard.

"One of my favourite memories was getting this little girl who wouldn't touch her vegetables to love shredded cabbage and eat a big plateful – her mum couldn't believe it." Margaret Parkes, 70, was a cleaner at the Green Park Avenue school for 25 years. Her daughter, Debbie Ramsbottom, 47, attended as did her daughter Michelle Hickman, 27, and now her children Morgan, Chloe and Ellie Hickman, three, six and five.

Mrs Parkes said: "This school has played such a big part in our family. I loved my time here, the children are wonderful. It's been an emotional day today and there's been some tears. I'm sad to see the old school go but times change and it's time to move on."

Pupils move into the nearby new building, called The Willows, on November 9. They will move be followed by pupils from Green Park Special School next year.

Head Sue Vaughan said: "Stowlawn first opened in 1962 and this is the end of an era. A lot of work has gone into the move but everyone is really looking forward to getting into the new building."

Year 1 teacher Jen Kendrick, 61, is the longest-serving member of staff with 35 years behind her. She said: "During that time I have seen five different headteachers, all of whom brought their own individual style to the school.

"We are one big happy family here and that is why I have stayed for so long."